Snap polls needed, Maha Sangha tells EC Chief

Friday, 29 July 2022 03:23 - - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}

Currently no visible change in system despite new appointments
Politicians have done nothing for the people
Election must be held for real change

By Maneshka Borham

Malwathu Chapter Senior Sangha Member Ven. Doranegama Rathanapala Nayaka Thero says a snap election is most suitable at this juncture due to the current situation in the country.

“The current Parliament is a distortion. The same people have been appointed to the posts of President, Prime Minister and Cabinet. There is no visible change in the system,” he said.

The Thero made these comments when Election Commission Chairman Attorney-at-Law Nimal Punchihewa along with several officials of the commission called on the Mahanayake Theros of the Asigiri and Malwathu chapters yesterday in Kandy. During the meeting, Punchihewa presented a proposal for electoral reforms before the Theros and explained its contents to them.

“The politicians worship at temples, then visit the Maha Sangha for blessings, but they do not take any action for the development of the country nor the upliftment of the people's lives,” Thero said.

“While the situation is complicated, we believe this is the most suitable step at this juncture to bring about a real change” he added.

In response, Punchihewa told the Mahanayake Theros that if the current fuel and gas crisis is not solved, elections will have to be conducted at fuel queues. “The Government will have to resolve these issues, then we will have to find the funds to hold an election,” he said, adding that the people should have mental freedom and independence to exercise their franchise.

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